Abstract
Vascular abnormalities of the spinal cord are an important cause of myelopathy. Clinicians
need to be aware of these disorders as they can present with a variety of neurologic
symptoms ranging from acute spinal neurologic emergencies, relapsing/remitting spells
to gradually progressive dysfunction. The unique topography and vascular anatomy of
the spinal cord lends to the variety of clinical presentations. Both ischemic and
hemorrhagic insults can occur. Increased clinical suspicion, better detection with
newer imaging modalities and early treatment can often impact outcomes. The authors
review clinical diagnoses, novel imaging, and advanced treatment modalities for the
most common causes of vascular myelopathy.
Keywords
spinal cord - arteriovenous malformation - dural fistula - cavernoma - myelopathy